A file photo detail shot of the tin ceiling that is in the kitchen of George Kirkos's home, on Concession #13, near the town of Cannington. Pictures taken on Dec.11/2006 Photo by Tibor KolleyTibor Kolley / The Globe and Mail
The question: I love tin ceilings, but are they too suggestive of Paris or New Orleans watering holes? If not, could you install one in any room?
The answer: A chic new bistro in Toronto has installed a tin ceiling and, yes, it feels like Paris there. Of course, Paris and New Orleans are not bad things to evoke and in fact I can't think of better places to water. In my view, tin ceilings provide a great textured canvas you can enhance to suit your surroundings. To wit, put panel moulding on the ceiling in a grid pattern and paint it flat white, then install the tin inside the grid and paint it high-gloss white. If you want a more dramatic look, cover both the entire grid and the tin with silver leaf, but beware that this look will be very bar-like. You can certainly install a tin ceiling in any room, but keep in mind that you will be bringing attention to the ceiling rather than hiding it. A tin ceiling would be fantastic in any space, such as a bedroom or dining room, where you want an intimate feel. I would be wary of using one in a living area, where you want the ceilings to soar. And if you absolutely love tin, you could cover an entire powder room, including the walls, with it. Call this a different type of watering hole.
Follow architect and interior designer Dee Dee Taylor Eustace, president of Taylor Hannah Architect Inc., on Twitter: @ddtaylordd. Have a design dilemma? E-mail style@globeandmail.com.